A dishwasher that smells or leaves grit behind usually needs its filter and interior cleaned. This shows you how to clear the filter, run a vinegar and baking soda cycle, and keep it running fresh so dishes come out cleaner.
What you'll need
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- A dishwasher-safe bowl
- An old toothbrush
- A cloth
- Rubber gloves
Step by step
- Empty the dishwasherRemove all dishes and pull out the bottom rack so you can reach the filter and spray arm.
- Clean the filterTwist out the cylindrical filter at the bottom, rinse it under hot water, and scrub trapped food and grease off with a toothbrush before replacing it.
- Wipe the interior and edgesWipe the door seal, the edges, and around the detergent dispenser with a damp cloth to remove gunk and residue that harbor odors.
- Run a vinegar cyclePlace a dishwasher-safe bowl with about a cup of white vinegar on the top rack, then run a hot cycle with no detergent to cut grease and odor.
- Freshen with baking sodaSprinkle a handful of baking soda across the bottom and run a short hot cycle to deodorize and brighten the interior.
- Check the spray arm holesInspect the spray arm and poke out any clogged holes with a toothpick so water sprays freely on the next wash.
Handy tips
- Clean the filter every couple of weeks to prevent smells and poor cleaning performance.
- Scrape large food scraps off dishes before loading so the filter does not clog as fast.
- Leave the door ajar for a while after a cycle to let the interior dry and discourage mildew.
Heads up
- Do not mix vinegar and bleach, and run the vinegar and baking soda in separate cycles rather than together.
FAQ
Why does my dishwasher smell bad?
Trapped food in the filter and along the seal is the usual cause. Cleaning the filter and running a vinegar cycle removes the source of the odor.
Can I use bleach to clean it?
Only if your dishwasher does not have a stainless steel interior, since bleach can damage stainless. Never combine bleach with vinegar because it creates harmful fumes.
How often should I deep clean the dishwasher?
Clean the filter every week or two and run a vinegar or baking soda cycle about once a month to keep it fresh and effective.